By- Abebe Bekelle
The Battle for Menelik Square: Ethiopia’s Struggle for Freedom of Assembly
Ethiopia’s Menelik Square has long been a symbol of the country’s history and culture. It is named after Emperor Menelik II, who ruled Ethiopia from 1889 to 1913 and is credited with modernizing the country and repelling Italian invaders. The square is a popular gathering place for Ethiopians to celebrate national holidays, attend political rallies, and express their views on issues of national importance.
However, in recent years, the Ethiopian government has increasingly restricted access to Menelik Square, and used excessive force to disperse crowds who gather there. The most recent example of this was the 127th celebration of Ethiopia’s Victory Day, which was celebrated on February 28th, 2023. While the government held a military parade at Meskel Square, attended by federal army and government officials, the celebration at Menelik Square was met with violence and repression.
People who tried to make their way to the square were met with blockades and tear gas, and the government openly targeted businesses and individuals who sold or wore Menelik-themed clothing or banners. This is a clear violation of the Ethiopian people’s right to freedom of assembly, and is indicative of the current government’s increasing authoritarianism.
The battle for Menelik Square is not just about access to a public space; it is about the right of Ethiopians to express their opinions and beliefs without fear of retribution. It is about the government’s responsibility to protect the rights of its citizens, rather than suppress them. And it is about the future of democracy in Ethiopia.
The Ethiopian government must recognize the importance of Menelik Square as a symbol of national unity and freedom of expression, and take steps to ensure that all Ethiopians are able to peacefully assemble there. This includes allowing peaceful protests and rallies, and providing adequate security without resorting to excessive force or intimidation tactics.
Additionally, the government must address the root causes of dissent and dissatisfaction among its citizens, rather than simply trying to suppress them. This means listening to the concerns of Ethiopians from all walks of life, and working to address issues such as corruption, economic inequality, and political repression.
The battle for Menelik Square is far from over, but it is one that Ethiopians must win if they hope to build a free and democratic society. The world must stand with them in their struggle, and demand that the Ethiopian government respect the rights of its citizens and uphold the principles of democracy and human rights.
